National Youth Jazz Orchestra

The National Youth Jazz Orchestra (NYJO) is a UK-based nonprofit organisation dedicated to nurturing young jazz musicians and promoting jazz music across the country. Charitable number 274580, NYJO has played a central role in jazz education and performance in the UK since its founding in 1965.

History

NYJO was founded in 1965 by Bill Ashton, originally known as the London Schools' Jazz Orchestra. It evolved into the National Youth Jazz Orchestra, establishing itself as the premier youth jazz ensemble in the UK. Based in the Royal Arsenal, London, it has grown from a single big band into a multi-faceted organisation supporting jazz education at multiple levels nationwide.

In 2010, Mark Armstrong took over as music director and artistic director, with Bill Ashton becoming life president. In 2015, NYJO became a National Portfolio Organisation of Arts Council England, recognising its vital role in youth arts and jazz promotion, and acquired the first royal patron of a jazz organisation, the Earl of Wessex.

Leadership changes in recent years include Susie York Skinner serving as chief executive until May 2024, followed by Yvette Griffith OBE taking over in August 2024, alongside the departure of former artistic director Mark Armstrong[3][5].

Mission and Activities

NYJO's mission is to empower gifted young musicians, primarily aged 18 to 25, by providing performance opportunities in major venues, fostering creativity through commissioning new works, and inspiring broad audiences with jazz music. It aims to promote jazz appreciation especially among schoolchildren through educational workshops and outreach programs linked with their performances.

The organisation provides a pathway into professional jazz careers, with a core performing band of up to 24 young musicians selected by audition. The ensemble performs approximately 35 to 40 gigs annually at prominent events including the BBC Proms and the EFG London Jazz Festival, as well as European tours and residencies at venues like Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club. These performances are often complemented by educational workshops for local schoolchildren in collaboration with regional Music Hubs[2][3][4].

Education and Development

NYJO has an extensive learning programme that nurtures young musicians of all skill levels through workshops, courses, and performance chances. Emphasising access and inclusivity, their education work targets musicians under 18 and emerging professionals, supporting their growth as performers, composers, and educators alike.

The organisation actively collaborates with partners to create inclusive, community-responsive projects that foster creativity and learning. Their learning activities seek to bridge established jazz traditions with experimental and contemporary music, promoting lifelong engagement with jazz[1][5].

Notable Alumni

NYJO has been a springboard for numerous distinguished UK jazz artists and musicians in related fields. Alumni include Guy Barker, Laura Jurd, Mark Nightingale, Amy Winehouse, Dave Arch (leader of the Strictly Come Dancing band), and Martin Koch (music supervisor for the London 2012 Olympics)[2].

Governance and Recognition

NYJO operates as a registered charity (number 274580) and continues to be supported by Arts Council England as a National Portfolio Organisation. It maintains a commitment to reflecting the diversity of modern Britain and advancing the arts through its "Let's Create" strategy alignment[3][5].

In summary, the National Youth Jazz Orchestra stands as a pillar of jazz development and education in the UK, nurturing young talent and enriching the cultural landscape through dynamic performances and inclusive learning programmes.

[1] https://nyjo.org.uk [2] https://www.allaboutjazz.com/musicians/national-youth-jazz-orchestra/ [3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Youth_Jazz_Orchestra [4] https://experiencehenley.co.uk/national-youth-jazz-orchestra/ [5] https://nyjo.org.uk/about-us/